Two cautions. The first is that this is a violent and traumatic story. The second is that I'm not a lawyer, so I've stuck as closely to others' expertise as I can. Any errors are entirely mine.
This is such an important piece Anna-so much work. CPAG has been working for years to reform relationship status in the Welfare System, and to institute reparations. Yours is such a valuable and insightful addition to all this mahi.
Well, this piece took me back to the dark days of social welfare in the 90's and 2000's. As a dpb beneficiary, it was never easy. Always stressful if you had to go to an appointment. The 90's were particularly ugly and I will never forgive or forget Paula Bennett for her part in that.
It's been 20 years since and my kids are grown and doing well, I'm retired and coping. I am forever grateful for our welfare system, however flawed it may be, but it should not be forgotten just how flawed it was (and still is.)
Thank you for writing this.
Thank you for writing this and bearing witness. So important and so in need of reform.
This took me on a journey. Thank you, Anna, for writing this. I feel it’s incredibly important for all to read.
This is such an important piece Anna-so much work. CPAG has been working for years to reform relationship status in the Welfare System, and to institute reparations. Yours is such a valuable and insightful addition to all this mahi.
Reading this was by turns horrifying, fascinating, enlightening. Thank you, thank you, thank you for writing and sharing this.
My heart hurts, but it's a good hurt.
Well, this piece took me back to the dark days of social welfare in the 90's and 2000's. As a dpb beneficiary, it was never easy. Always stressful if you had to go to an appointment. The 90's were particularly ugly and I will never forgive or forget Paula Bennett for her part in that.
It's been 20 years since and my kids are grown and doing well, I'm retired and coping. I am forever grateful for our welfare system, however flawed it may be, but it should not be forgotten just how flawed it was (and still is.)
Thank you Anna for the reminder.🌻